Poster Showcase
The School of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies (SGPS) invites Ontario Tech University graduate and postdoctoral students to participate in our Poster Showcase. This event highlights the importance of presenting research in a concise, visually engaging format that sparks dialogue and captures the attention of both academic and non-specialist audiences.
By combining clear, concise text with visual elements such as graphs, images and tables, students can present complex ideas in a way that is both accessible and engaging. Through this showcase, students will gain valuable experience in translating their research into an effective visual presentation, receive constructive feedback, and engage with peers, faculty, and the broader community. The Poster Showcase not only demonstrates the depth and diversity of graduate and postdoctoral research but also encourages participants to refine their communication skills and embrace best practices in scholarly dissemination.
Submission requirements
Posters are a common presentation format in the academic world, often featured in conference programs. A research poster effectively summarizes key information or findings in a concise and visually appealing way, aiming to both publicize the research and spark discussions.
What makes a good poster?
- A good poster combines brief text with visual elements such as tables, graphs, and images.
- Key information should be readable from at least 10 feet away.
- The title should be brief and engaging.
- Aim for a word count of 300–800 words.
- Keep the text clear, concise, and focused.
- Use bullets, numbering, and headings for easy readability.
- Incorporate graphics, colors, and fonts effectively.
- Ensure a consistent and clean layout.
- Include your name, institutional affiliation, and acknowledgments.
Below are a selection of well-crafted research posters created by Ontario Tech students. These examples highlight effective ways to present research clearly and visually. Whether you are preparing for your first poster session or looking to enhance your presentation skills, these samples provide a wealth of inspiration and best practices.
| Click on the posters below to expand. | ||
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Important dates
The SGPS Research Showcase will be held on Wednesday, November 26 at Charles Hall on Ontario Tech's downtown campus (61 Charles Street, Oshawa). The Poster showcase will take place from 5 to 7 p.m. with set-up beginning at 4 p.m.
Date |
Event |
| Friday, September 19 | Applications open |
| Friday, October 17 | Applications close |
| Friday, October 24 | Applicant selection completed |
| Monday, November 17 | Electronic submission of Poster |
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Wednesday, November 26 |
Poster Showcase Time: 5 to 7:30 p.m. (set-up begins at 4 p.m., tear down following the end of the event) Location: Charles Hall (61 Charles Street, Oshawa) |
Eligibility
To participate in the SGPS Research Poster Showcase, students must meet the eligibility criteria outlined below:
- At the time of the showcase, students must be registered in a Master's or PhD program, or be a current postdoctoral fellow and must have made substantial progress on their research and analysis. Students in programs with a major research project, paper or portfolio may participate. Course-based master's students may submit a poster for the contest based on work/paper completed in a graduate level course
- To participate, students must be in Clear Standing. Students are required to maintain a minimum grade of B-minus (GPA: 2.7) in all graded components of the program as well as satisfactory research progress in programs with a thesis, project or major paper.
- PhD and master's students who have defended or submitted their project, paper, or portfolio, but have not yet convocated, are eligible to participate. Additionally, master's students who have convocated and continued on to a PhD program, as well as PhD graduates pursuing post-doctoral research, are also eligible.
- All posters must be submitted by the specified deadlines. Late submissions will not be accepted.
- Each student is allowed to present only one poster at the event.
Rules
- Participants must set up their posters at the designated time before the event starts and take them down promptly at the end of the event.
- Posters must not exceed the maximum dimensions (42" wide x 34" tall). They should include a title, introduction, methodology, results, conclusion, and references.
- Participants must be present at their poster for the entire duration of the poster session to answer questions and discuss their research.
- Participants should always engage with attendees professionally and respectfully.
- Posters will be judged based on clarity, originality, research quality, visual appeal, and the ability to answer questions effectively.
- By participating, students agree to allow the university to use photos and descriptions of their posters for promotional purposes.
- Posters should focus on academic research and should not include commercial advertising or promotion of products/services.
- Winners will be announced at the end of the event, with prizes awarded for the top posters in various categories (Best Overall ($500), Best Visuals ($250), Most Innovative ($250)) separate prizes offered for PhD/Postdoctoral Fellows and Masters.
Judging criteria for Poster Showcase
Prizes will be awarded in three categories – Best Overall ($500), Best Visuals ($250) and Most Innovative ($250). A total of six (6) awards will be available, as submissions for Masters and PhD is judged separately, with three winners from each degree level.
Best Overall (50 points)- Clarity of Research Question (20 points): Is the research question or objective clearly stated and easy to understand?
- Methodology (10 points): Are the research methods appropriate and well-described? Are they clearly outlined?
- Results and Discussion (10 points): Are the results clearly presented and analyzed? Is the discussion of results thorough and insightful and accessible to a general audience?
- Impact (10 points): Does the research have the potential to make a meaningful impact on the field or society?
- Layout and Organization (10 points): Is the poster logically organized with a clear flow of information? Is it easy to follow?
- Aesthetics (20 points): Is the poster visually appealing, with appropriate use of colours, fonts, and images? Does it draw the viewer’s attention?
- Graphics and Charts (10 points): Are graphs, charts, and images well-integrated and do they effectively support the content?
- Impact (10 points): Does the research have the potential to make a meaningful impact on the field or society?
- Creativity (20 points): Does the manner in which the research is presented suggest creative thinking and originality?
- Innovation (20 points): Does the project itself introduce new ideas, concepts, or methodologies?I
- Impact (10 points): Does the research have the potential to make a meaningful impact on the field or society?
Judges' profiles
This year, we are pleased to welcome the following individual(s) as our guest judge(s) for this competition:
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Alex Talmor Alex Talmor, President of GlassHouse Systems, comes with over 25 years of experience in Information Technology sales and business development working with large national and international companies in Canada, US, across all sectors. Alex Talmor is a seasoned professional with a comprehensive background in Information Technology, having worked with large national and international companies across North America to leverage IT to deliver business outcomes. Alex has started at IBM in 2000 in sales, moving in 2009 to GlassHouse Systems where he lead the transformation to a Security and Hybrid Cloud solution and services provider. Alex lead the partnership of GlassHouse Systems with OntarioTech in the past three years developing AI/ML capabilities to enhance the operation of cybersecurity services. Alex holds B.Sc and Masters in Industrial Engineering (Technion, Israel) and MBA (Schulich, Canada). |
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Catherine Davidson Catherine Davidson serves as University Librarian at Ontario Tech, overseeing the strategy, design, and user-centered delivery of innovative library services, outreach, and partnerships. She is dedicated to advancing student success, equity, diversity, inclusion, truth and reconciliation, and accessibility, while promoting ethical technologies and fostering welcoming spaces through a collegial and empathetic leadership style. |
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Catherine Drea, PhD Dr. Catherine Drea has over 30 years of senior administrative experience in the higher education sector in Ontario, Canada. This includes work in two universities – Ontario Tech University and the University of Toronto. She has held positions including Vice President, Assistant Vice President and Dean. She is currently the Director of International Education at Ontario Tech and was also the Founding Project Manager of Ontario Tech at its inception. Catherine has Adjunct Professor positions in the Frazer Faculty of Education at Ontario Tech as well the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education/University of Toronto. Catherine holds a Doctorate of Education degree from the University of Toronto. Her research interests include higher education policy, international education, student affairs and the study of teaching and learning. |
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Sarah Stokes, PhD Dr. Sarah Stokes holds a BSc (Hons), BEd, Master of Educational Technology (MET), and Doctor of Education (EdD). With a strong background in both teaching and instructional design, she has worked extensively across professional and post-secondary education. Her academic and professional interests focus on open educational resources (OER), student development, and the transition into and through university. Sarah's research and practice explore how accessible and inclusive learning resources can support student success, while also promoting equite and reducing barriers in education. She has developed curricula, programs and instructional supports that reflect her commitment to fostering engaging and student-centered learning environments. In addition, she has contributed to initiatives that bridge the gap between high school and university, ensuring that students are equipped with the skills, confidence, and supports they need to thrive. |
FAQs
1. What are the allowed dimensions of the poster?The recommended poster dimensions are 42” wide x 34” tall. Posters should be large enough to be easily readable from a few feet away and should adhere to these size guidelines to fit within the display area provided at the event.
2. Who can participate in the SGPS Research Showcase?
The SGPS Research Poster Showcase is open to all Ontario Tech graduate students and postdoctoral fellows, including those in both research-based and course-based programs. This event provides a platform for students from all disciplines to showcase their academic projects, research, or key insights.
3. When are applications accepted until and what if I miss the application deadline?
Applications will be accepted until Friday, October 17. Please submit your application by this date to be considered for the event. Unfortunately, late applications cannot be accepted due to the need for planning and logistics. We encourage you to apply as early as possible to ensure your participation.
4. Is there an award for the top posters?
Yes, awards will be given to the top posters based on various criteria such as clarity of presentation, creativity, and the significance of the work. Details on the award categories and prizes will be provided closer to the event.
5. What if I am in a course-based master’s program?
Students in course-based programs are welcome to participate! Whether you have completed a capstone project, case study, or another academic project, the Fall Discovery Showcase is an opportunity to present your work alongside research-based students.
6. Can I invite friends and family to the event?
Yes, the event is open to the public, and we encourage participants to invite friends, family, and colleagues to attend and support their presentations.
7. Are there any specific software recommendations for creating my poster?
There is no specific software required, but many participants use PowerPoint, Adobe Illustrator, or Canva to design their posters. Ensure that your final poster is exported as a high-resolution PDF to maintain the quality when printed.
8. Do I need to print my own poster, or will the university provide printing services?
Participants are responsible for printing their own posters.
9. What is the format of the event?
The SGPS Research Showcase is an in-person event. Participants will stand beside their posters/imagery during the session, answer questions, and engage with attendees.
10. Can I attend the event even if I’m not presenting?
Yes, the SGPS Research Showcase is open to everyone, including students, faculty, and members of the public who are not presenting. It is a great opportunity to learn about the exciting research and academic projects happening across the university.
11. How can I prepare to present?
We recommend rehearsing your presentation ahead of time to ensure you are comfortable explaining your work concisely and clearly. Consider practicing with colleagues or supervisors and be prepared to answer questions about your methods, findings, and the broader implications of your work.
12. What should I wear to the SGPS Research Showcase?
Business casual attire is recommended for the event. Presenters should aim to appear professional, as they will be engaging with judges, faculty members, and other attendees.
Submit your application!
We invite you to join us for the SGPS Research Showcase and take advantage of this unique opportunity to showcase your research and/or academic achievements and ideas.
Please Note: Submitting an application does not guarantee participation in the SGPS Research Showcase. Depending on the number of applications received, participants may be selected to ensure balanced representation across all faculties. We appreciate your understanding as we work to curate a diverse and equitable list of participants.